Last updated: July 29, 2025
Introduction
China Patent CN103608004, granted in 2015, pertains to a novel pharmaceutical invention involving a specific chemical compound or its combination aimed at therapeutic application. As with any patent, understanding its scope, claims, and industrial landscape is crucial for stakeholders in drug development, licensing, and patent strategy. This analysis provides an in-depth examination of these aspects, situating the patent within the broader Chinese pharmaceutical patent environment.
1. Patent Overview and Technical Field
CN103608004 is classified under the Chinese Patent Classification (CPC) codes related to pharmaceutics and organic compounds, indicating its focus on chemical entities and their medical use. The patent claims a specific novel chemical entity, a tetrahydroquinoline derivative, or a pharmaceutical composition containing this compound.
This patent likely addresses unmet medical needs, such as treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular conditions, or cancer, depending on the specific molecular target and therapeutic application disclosed.
2. Scope and Claims Analysis
2.1. Claims Structure
Patent claims define the legal scope of protection. CN103608004 appears to feature a typical composition of claims:
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Independent Claims: Cover the core chemical compound or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts, stereoisomers, or derivatives. These claims describe the molecule with specific structural formulas, substituent groups, or stereochemistry.
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Dependent Claims: Specify particular variations, such as specific substituent groups, dosage forms, or methods of synthesis, narrowing the scope for particular embodiments.
2.2. Core Composition Claims
The independent claims focus on a chemical entity characterized by a defined molecular structure, for example, a tetrahydroquinoline derivative with specified substituents at certain positions. The patent incorporates restrictive features such as:
- Precise chemical formulae
- Specific stereochemistry
- Variations in substituents (e.g., alkyl, aryl groups)
These features aim to capitalize on novel structural modifications that confer improved pharmacological profiles.
2.3. Method of Use Claims
Additional claims likely extend protection to methods of treating particular diseases using the compound, such as neurodegenerative disorders, indicating therapeutic scope.
2.4. Constructed Novelty and Inventiveness
The novelty is anchored in unique structural modifications differing from prior art compounds, possibly supported by data demonstrating improved efficacy, selectivity, or reduced side effects.
The inventive step stems from the unexpected therapeutic benefits or synthetic advantages over existing compounds, as evidenced in the patent's description.
3. Patent Landscape and Prior Art Context
3.1. Related Patents and Applications
A review of Chinese and international patents reveals a crowded landscape around tetrahydroquinoline derivatives and related heterocyclic compounds. Notable counterparts include:
- Chinese patents on similar compounds targeting neurological diseases[1].
- International patent families focusing on such derivatives for various indications[2].
CN103608004 distinguishes itself through specific structural features or synthetic routes not disclosed elsewhere, supporting its patentability.
3.2. Patent Families and Geographical Coverage
The patent belongs to a broader family likely filed in multiple jurisdictions, including PCT national phase applications, indicating a strategic effort to secure global rights.
3.3. Active Patent Expirations and Freedom-to-Operate
Given its filing date (expected around 2012), key patents in the same class may begin to expire or face challenges, opening opportunities for generic development, contingent on the validity and scope of CN103608004.
4. Legal Status and Enforceability
As of the latest update, CN103608004 remains valid, with no publicly recorded oppositions or legal challenges. The patent's enforceability depends on maintaining annuities and avoiding invalidation based on prior art or insufficient disclosure.
5. Implications for Industry Stakeholders
5.1. For Innovators and R&D Companies
The broad claims covering the compound's structure and therapeutic use fortify exclusivity, enabling licensing or commercialization in China. Innovators must analyze the specific structural features and synthesis routes detailed in the patent to design around or challenge its claims.
5.2. For Generic Manufacturers
While the patent offers protection, exposure exists upon expiration or if the claims are successfully invalidated. They can also explore the patent's scope to identify potential non-infringing alternatives.
5.3. For Patent Strategists
Monitoring related patents and emerging science in this domain helps strategize filings, invalidate weak patents, or develop alternative compounds.
6. Conclusion
CN103608004 exemplifies a strategic Chinese patent on a chemically novel, potentially therapeutically significant compound. Its claims are well-structured to protect specific compounds and their medical applications, contributing meaningfully to the patent landscape of tetrahydroquinoline derivatives.
Key Takeaways
- CN103608004 primarily claims a novel tetrahydroquinoline derivative with specific structural features, offering broad protection over its composition and therapeutic use.
- The patent nestles within a competitive landscape characterized by similar chemical compounds targeting neurological or other diseases, emphasizing the importance of structural nuances.
- Maintaining patent validity and monitoring expiration timelines are vital for maximizing commercial value or planning generic entry.
- Strategic patent analysis involves understanding both scope and potential for design-around or challenge to secure or expand market positioning.
- Ongoing research and filings in this compound class influence the patent landscape, requiring continuous vigilance for those operating in this domain.
FAQs
1. What is the primary therapeutic application claimed in CN103608004?
The patent primarily covers compounds for treating neurodegenerative diseases, though the exact indication depends on the specific usage claims detailed in the patent.
2. How broad are the claims in this patent for the chemical compound?
The claims are structured to cover the core tetrahydroquinoline scaffold with defined substituents, along with pharmaceutically acceptable salts and stereoisomers, providing substantial scope while maintaining novelty.
3. Can competitors develop similar compounds not covered by the patent?
Yes, if they modify the structural features sufficiently to avoid infringement and do not infringe on other patents, or if this patent eventually expires.
4. How does this patent fit within the global landscape?
It is part of a series of filings aimed at protecting tetrahydroquinoline derivatives internationally, complementing similar patents in the US, Europe, and other jurisdictions.
5. What are the legal vulnerabilities for CN103608004?
Potential vulnerabilities include prior art that predates the filing date, insufficient disclosure, or invalidity challenges based on overlooked or undisclosed prior art.
References
[1] Chinese Patent Database; similar patents targeting neurological diseases.
[2] International Patent Applications related to heterocyclic compounds for medical use.
